Mother Ocean Day: Saving the Earth's Lungs

Mother Ocean Day is a global observance that recognizes the oceans' significance in our lives. It celebrates the immense value of oceans as a source of food, climate regulation, transportation, and recreation. The day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the oceans' importance and promote their conservation, reminding us of the critical role that oceans play in supporting life on Earth.

A still of fascinating and diverse sea life; Image Source: UN

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, Mother Ocean Day is celebrated on May 10th every year in recognition of the critical role that oceans play in supporting life on Earth. It is celebrated on May 10th every year. This day highlights the oceans' significance and other ocean laws, such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which regulates states' rights and obligations regarding their use of the world's seas and oceans, creating principles for corporations, the environment, and marine natural resource management.  It is sometimes referred to as the “constitution of the oceans.” The day provides an opportunity for people to come together to raise awareness about the importance of the oceans and promote their conservation.

Oceans are vital to the health and well-being of our planet, covering 71% of the Earth's surface and providing a home to a diverse array of species, many of which are still undiscovered. They regulate the Earth's climate, provide a source of food and livelihoods for millions of people, and support transportation and recreation.  Oceans also play a critical role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and the health of the planet.

At least half of the oxygen on the earth is produced by the ocean and they absorb more than 25% of the carbon dioxide emissions produced by human activities.

Unfortunately, human activities have severely damaged the oceans over the years. Pollution from plastic waste, chemical pollution, oil spills, and agricultural runoff is affecting marine life, ecosystems, and human health. An estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans each year, and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is estimated to be twice the size of Texas. Chemical pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities has led to "dead zones" in the oceans, where oxygen levels are so low that marine life cannot survive. Oil spills, such as the Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, have had devastating impacts on marine life and ecosystems.

It is, therefore, essential to raise awareness about the importance of oceans and the need to protect them. Mother Ocean Day is a perfect opportunity to celebrate and recognize the vital role of oceans in our lives and highlight the need to protect them. Governments and organizations worldwide are making efforts to preserve and protect the oceans. The United Nations has launched several initiatives, including Sustainable Development Goal 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. Many countries have also established marine protected areas and implemented regulations to reduce pollution and overfishing.

Individuals can also play their part in protecting the oceans. By reducing our use of single-use plastics, using sustainable seafood, and supporting organizations that work towards ocean conservation, we can make a significant difference.

Mother Ocean Day allows us to recognise the importance of oceans and emphasise the need to conserve them. With collective efforts from individuals, organizations, and governments, we can ensure that the oceans continue to sustain life on Earth and provide us with the resources we need to thrive.